What to Do in Haliburton This Summer (Hint: It Starts With BBQ)

Summer in Haliburton is something special. The lakes are full, the trails are buzzing, and the whole Highlands comes alive with people looking for exactly this — good food, good company, and a reason to slow down.

If you're putting together your summer Haliburton itinerary, we'd humbly suggest starting with a visit to Boshkung Smokehouse. Here's how to make the most of it.

Start at the Smokehouse

Located inside the Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve, Boshkung Smokehouse is one of those rare spots that earns its reputation every single day. Slow-smoked Texas-style BBQ, craft beer on tap, live music nights, and a setting that feels like it was built for exactly this kind of summer afternoon.

We're open Wednesday through Sunday, with Saturday being the big day — come early, because the platters go fast.

Recommended order for first-timers:

  • Brisket Sandwich or Brisket Platter

  • Smoked Mac & Cheese or Coleslaw on the side

  • Cold craft beer

  • Dessert (trust us)

Don't Miss Smoke On Kennisis

Our seasonal outpost at Kennisis Lake Marina — "Smoke On Kennisis" — is open starting May 24, 2026. It's the perfect stop after a morning on the water. Same great BBQ, lakeside vibes, and the kind of view that makes everything taste better.

📍 1076 Wilkinson Dr, Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0

Your Complete Summer Haliburton Guide

Haliburton has no shortage of things to do around your meal. Here's a breakdown of the best summer activities, attractions, and experiences:

Outdoor Adventures & Water Activities

Kennisis LakeOne of the crown jewels of cottage country. Whether you're into boating, swimming, paddling, or just floating on a dock with a cold drink, Kennisis Lake is the place. The water is clean, the views are stunning, and the vibe is pure summer. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard from one of the local outfitters. Pro tip: grab lunch from Smoke On Kennisis after a morning on the water.

Haliburton Forest & Wildlife ReserveThis is where Boshkung Smokehouse lives, and for good reason. The reserve spans over 30,000 acres and offers:

  • Hiking trails — ranging from easy lakeside walks to challenging backcountry routes

  • Wildlife tours — guided experiences to spot moose, deer, and other Highlands wildlife

  • Wolf Centre — one of Ontario's most unique attractions, featuring rescued wolves and educational programs

  • Canoe routes — paddle through pristine lakes and rivers

  • Mountain biking — trails for all skill levels

The reserve is a full-day (or multi-day) destination. Pack a picnic, or better yet, grab BBQ from us and eat with a view.

Drag Lake A quieter alternative to Kennisis, Drag Lake is perfect if you want a more peaceful water experience. Great for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Less crowded than the main lakes, but equally beautiful.

Haliburton Highlands Water TrailA series of interconnected lakes and rivers perfect for paddling. The trail spans multiple lakes and offers camping opportunities if you want to make it a multi-day adventure. Stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and the kind of solitude that cottage country is famous for.

Trails & Hiking

Haliburton Highlands Trails Some of the best hiking in Ontario.

Options include:

Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve - various difficulty levels, all with beautiful forest scenery

Glebe Lake Trail — easy, scenic walk around the lake

Burnt River Trail — more challenging backcountry hiking

Minden Hills trails — various difficulty levels, all with beautiful forest scenery

Most trails range from 2–8 km and take 1–4 hours. Pack water, snacks, and sunscreen. The forest is dense and beautiful — you'll see why people come back to Haliburton year after year.

Cultural & Community Experiences

Haliburton VillageThe heart of the Highlands. Spend an afternoon browsing:

  • Local shops & galleries — art, crafts, souvenirs, and unique finds

  • Farmers' market — seasonal produce, local goods, and community vibes (typically summer weekends)

  • Restaurants & cafes — beyond Boshkung, there are other solid options for breakfast, lunch, and casual dining

  • Antique shops — if you're into vintage finds and local history

The village is walkable, charming, and a great place to grab coffee or ice cream between activities.

Live Music & Events at Boshkung

We host live music nights throughout the summer. Check our Instagram and Facebook (@boshkungsmokehouse) for the schedule. It's the kind of vibe where locals and tourists mix, the food is incredible, and the atmosphere is pure cottage country.

Haliburton Sculpture ForestA unique outdoor art installation featuring sculptures throughout a forested area. It's a peaceful, creative experience — perfect for a quiet afternoon walk or a photo opportunity.

Seasonal Festivals & Markets

Summer Farmers' MarketsTypically run on weekends throughout the summer. Fresh local produce, baked goods, crafts, and a real community feel. Great place to grab ingredients if you're renting a cottage, or just to soak in the local vibe.

Community EventsHaliburton hosts various summer events — check the local tourism board for current schedules. These often include outdoor concerts, craft fairs, and community celebrations.

Relaxation & Wellness

Cottage Rentals & Lakeside LivingIf you're not a local, rent a cottage for a week or weekend. Haliburton has hundreds of options, from rustic cabins to luxury lakefront homes. Spend your days on the water, your evenings around a fire pit, and your meals at places like Boshkung.

Spa & WellnessSeveral local spas and wellness centers offer massages, yoga, and other treatments. After a day of hiking or water activities, a massage hits different.

Quiet Lake TimeSometimes the best activity is doing nothing. Rent a cottage, float on a dock, read a book, and let the Highlands work their magic.

Dining Beyond Boshkung

While we're obviously biased, Haliburton has other solid dining options:

  • Hook Line & Sinker — local favorite for fish and casual dining

  • Burnt Crust Pizza - Best pizza in Haliburton

  • Various cafes & restaurants — scattered throughout the village and surrounding areas

But honestly? Start with us. Then explore.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Day

Here's a sample itinerary:

Morning: Hit the trails or get on the water. Hike at Haliburton Forest, paddle Kennisis Lake, or explore one of the quieter trails.

Midday: Grab lunch at Boshkung Smokehouse (main location) or Smoke On Kennisis (lakeside). Brisket sandwich, smoked sides, cold beer.

Afternoon: Browse Haliburton Village, visit the Sculpture Forest, or head back to your cottage for a swim and a nap.

Evening: Return to Boshkung for dinner, catch live music if there's a show, and soak in the community vibe. Or fire up a cottage dinner with ingredients from the farmers' market.

Night: Sit around a fire pit, watch the stars, and remember why you love cottage country.

Stay Connected

We run live music nights, community events, and seasonal specials all summer long. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook (@boshkungsmokehouse) so you never miss a thing.

Boshkung Smokehouse📍 1095 Redkenn Rd, Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0 📞 (705) 809-0512 🌐 boshkungsmokehouse.com

Smoke On Kennisis — Kennisis Lake Marina 📍 1076 Wilkinson Dr, Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0 (Open May 24, 2026)

Come for the BBQ. Stay for everything else. 🤠🔥